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While gaining increasing attention, plant–microbiome–environment interactions remain insufficiently understood, with many aspects still underexplored. This article explores bacterial biodiversity across plant compartments, including underexplored niches such as seeds and flowers. Furthermore, this study provides a systematic dataset on the taxonomic structure of the anthosphere microbiome, one of the most underexplored plant niches. This review examines ecological processes driving microbial community assembly and interactions, along with the discussion on mechanisms and diversity aspects of processes concerning the acquisition of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and iron—elements essential in both molecular and ecological contexts. These insights are crucial for advancing molecular biology, microbial ecology, environmental studies, biogeochemistry, and applied studies. Moreover, the authors present the compilation of molecular markers for discussed processes, which will find application in (phylo)genetics, various (meta)omic approaches, strain screening, and monitoring. Such a review can be a valuable source of information for specialists in the fields concerned and for applied researchers, contributing to developments in sustainable agriculture, environmental protection, and conservation biology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cell wall is an indispensable element of bacterial cells and a long-known target of many antibiotics. Penicillin, the first discovered beta-lactam antibiotic inhibiting the synthesis of cell walls, was successfully used to cure many bacterial infections. Unfortunately, pathogens eventually developed resistance to it. This started an arms race, and while novel beta-lactams, either natural or (semi)synthetic, were discovered, soon upon their application, bacteria were developing resistance. Currently, we are facing the threat of losing the race since more and more multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens are emerging. Therefore, there is an urgent need for developing novel approaches to combat MDR bacteria. The cell wall is a reasonable candidate for a target as it differentiates not only bacterial and human cells but also has a specific composition unique to various groups of bacteria. This ensures the safety and specificity of novel antibacterial agents that target this structure. Due to the shortage of low-molecular-weight candidates for novel antibiotics, attention was focused on peptides and proteins that possess antibacterial activity. Here, we describe proteinaceous agents of various origins that target bacterial cell wall, including bacteriocins and phage and bacterial lysins, as alternatives to classic antibiotic candidates for antimicrobial drugs. Moreover, advancements in protein chemistry and engineering currently allow for the production of stable, specific, and effective drugs. Finally, we introduce the concept of selective targeting of dangerous pathogens, exemplified by staphylococci, by agents specifically disrupting their cell walls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Horses stay in different types of stables; especially during the cold season, they stay inside for most of the day. A stable is also a place where many people spend quite a lot of time either as employees who care for and train horses or as equine enthusiasts. Keeping horses in stables causes their constant exposure to high concentrations of particulate matter (PM) and molds in the air inside these facilities. The study was conducted in Udórz Stud Farm located in the southern region of Poland. It was carried out in two different types of stables: three runners and two box stables. The study continued for 2 years; samples were collected in each season of the year. The following devices were used: a six-stage Andersen-Graseby cascade impactor, the DustTrak™ II Aerosol Monitor 8530. The obtained results allowed for the conclusion that horses kept in box stables are exposed to lower concentrations of molds and yeasts than those kept in runners. Molds dominated in the stable air during humid periods—spring and autumn—while yeasts were more prominent during summer and winter. It was observed that cleaning stables reduces the morphotic elements of fungi in the air, even though it results in a higher level of particulate matter in the stable air. It should be noted that microclimate conditions were optimal for horses practically throughout the whole year. Key points: • In stables, there is a high level of air intoxication, both by yeast and by mold fungi • The concentrations of fungi in the air depend on the season and the stable cleaning procedure • The PM concentrations depend on the type of stable [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ecology of human communication is face to face. In these contexts, speakers dynamically modify their communication across vocal (e.g., speaking rate) and gestural (e.g., cospeech gestures related in meaning to the content of speech) channels while speaking. What is the function of these adjustments? Here we ask whether speakers dynamically make these adjustments to increase communicative success, and decrease cognitive effort while speaking. We assess whether speakers modulate word durations and produce iconic (i.e., imagistically evoking properties of referents) gestures depending on the predictability of each word they utter. Predictability is operationalized as surprisal and computed from computational language models trained on corpora of child-directed, or adult-directed language. Using data from a novel corpus (Ecological Language Corpus) of naturalistic interactions between adult–child (aged 3–4), and adult–adult, we show that surprisal predicts speakers' multimodal adjustments and that some of these effects are modulated by whether the comprehender is a child or an adult. Thus, communicative efficiency applies generally across vocal and gestural communicative channels not being limited to structural properties of language or vocal modality. Public Significance Statement: In everyday language use, whether speakers are addressing a child or an adult, they modulate their speech and use gestures. The function of these multimodal, nonlinguistic behaviors has been investigated separately in different subfields (linguistics, gesture studies, language acquisition, and language processing). Here we bring these fields together in asking whether communicative efficiency accounts for multimodal (vocal and gestural) adjustments across different audiences (adult–child and adult–adult). Using computational methods and analyses of child-directed and adult-directed language from a new conversational corpus, we found that adult speakers, talking to young children or adults, increase communicative efficiency by modulating word durations and producing gestures depending upon the predictability of to-be uttered words. These findings have implications for our understanding of language showing that behaviors, traditionally considered as nonlinguistic, are dynamically modulated by linguistic content. They have implications for education as they provide further evidence of how caregivers shape the learning environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Mental health and substance use disorders (MHDs and SUDs) affect cardiac allograft and VAD recipients and impact their quality of life and compliance. Limited research currently exists on MHDs and SUDs in this population. Methods: This study compares the incidence of MHDs and SUDs in the transplant list, VAD, and post-transplant patients with that in heart failure patients. Study cohorts were derived from the TriNetX database using ICD-10 codes. Differences in incidence were examined using the log-rank test. Adults with MHDs and SUDs before the window of time were excluded. All comparisons were made between propensity-matched cohorts. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: Transplant waitlist patients showed a significant increase in the incidence of anxiety, depression, panic, adjustment, mood, alcohol use, and eating disorders. Post-transplant patients showed a significant increase in depression and opioid use. VAD patients showed a significant increase in depression and a decrease in panic disorder and anxiety. These results allow for further investigations on prevention and coping strategies. Conclusions: The deterioration of mental health can significantly impact medication compliance, survival, and quality of life. Opioid use for pain management in the early postoperative period should be further investigated to assess its impact on long-term substance use and addiction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors are proposing a theoretical model explaining the behavior of individuals tested through experiments on obedience toward authority conducted according to Milgram’s paradigm. Their assumption is that the participant faces typical avoidance-avoidance conflict conditions. Participant does not want to hurt the learner in the adjacent room but he or she also does not want to harm the experimenter. The solution to this conflict, entailing hurting on of the two, may be different depending on the spatial organization of the experiment. In the study, experimental conditions were modified, so that the participant was (vs. was not) in the same room as the experimenter and was (vs. was not) in the same room as the learner. Forty individuals (20 women and 20 men) were tested in each of the four experimental conditions. It turns out that the physical presence of the experimenter was conducive to obedience, while the physical presence of the learner reduced it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The use of AI-driven technologies in probing big data to generate better risk prediction models has been an ongoing and expanding area of investigation. The AI-driven models may perform better as compared to linear models; however, more investigations are needed in this area to refine their predictability and applicability to the field of durable MCS and cardiac transplantation. Methods: A literature review was carried out using Google Scholar/PubMed from 2000 to 2023. Results: This review defines the knowledge gaps and describes different AI-driven approaches that may be used to further our understanding. Conclusions: The limitations of current models are due to missing data, data imbalances, and the uneven distribution of variables in the datasets from which the models are derived. There is an urgent need for predictive models that can integrate a large number of clinical variables from multicenter data to account for the variability in patient characteristics that influence patient selection, outcomes, and survival for both durable MCS and HT; this may be fulfilled by AI-driven risk prediction models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study described herein was to design, construct and test a demonstrator of a system to control the direction of the resultant thrust vector of a rocket motor to be used in short range anti-tank missiles with a mass of up to 15 kg. The novelty of the system is that the direction of the resultant thrust vector is manipulated by means of moveable jet vanes integrated with a moveable nozzle diffuser through telescopic connectors. The technology demonstrator was built using different materials and different manufacturing processes. The first versions were 3D printed from plastic materials. Minor modifications to the design were made at an early stage. The final version had the main components made of aluminum using CNC machining. The system, with and without jet vanes, was tested on a specially developed test rig equipped with a multi-axis sensor to measure forces and torques. The nozzle performance parameters measured and analyzed in this study were the components of the thrust vector, the moments and the effective vectoring angle. The findings show that the experimental data are in good agreement with the results of earlier simulations and that the demonstrator is fully operational. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Visiting urban green and blue spaces improves the quality of life in cities as it helps to preserve human-nature bonds. In this context, the role of urban parks and forests has been well-recognised; however, much less is known about the landscapes of inland water bodies. To fill this gap, the study aimed to identify spatiotemporal patterns of recreational activities in the urban riverscape in relation to the visitors' residential proximity. Also, survey results were combined with spatial and remote sensing data to determine how the spatial characteristics of the riverscape affect its recreational use. The case of Warsaw, Poland, was used. The results indicated that the riverscape serves as a local park for the neighbouring communities, while it is rather a warm-weekend attraction for far-living ones. Visitors concentrate in the city centre, and spread out along the communication paths; however, spatial patterns of the magnitude of particular activities also show interbank differences. Spatial error models of drivers of riverscape recreation revealed (1) the multifaceted role of trees in densely visited areas and (2) the importance of physical availability for contact with the urban river. These findings expand knowledge on the recreational use of urban rivers by exploring its place-related motivations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In biomedical and optical applications, multifunctional upconverting nanoparticles (UCNPs) play an essential role where non‐invasive temperature sensing and imaging are necessary. UCNPs smaller than 20 nm, which can be excited under 808 nm wavelength, are particularly promising in this area and can be implemented in humans or other mammals. However, new versatile nanoprobes are still needed for biology, especially for challenging studies of small aquatic invertebrates. Such tools allow better monitoring and understanding of their physiology, biochemistry, and ecological responses, which is crucial due to the growing pollution of water reservoirs and climate change. Herein, multifunctional NaYF4:Yb3+, Er3+@NaNdF4:Yb3+ core@shell NPs (15 nm), forming stable aqueous colloids, exhibiting intense emissions under excitation in the first biological window (808 nm), and presenting high thermal sensitivity and resolution related to the thermally coupled energy levels of Er3+ ions, are designed and synthesized. Such properties of UCNPs are further utilized for optical imaging of aquatic invertebrates (Daphnia magna) and temperature detection inside their bodies under 808 nm excitation. This pioneering application of NaYF4:Yb3+, Er3+@NaNdF4:Yb3+ demonstrates the high potential of developed UCNPs for multifunctional applications, especially for bioimaging and temperature sensing within whole organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Disulfide bonds are critical structural elements in proteins and stabilize folded structures. Modification of these linkages is associated with a loss of structure and function. Previous studies have reported large variations in the rate of disulfide oxidation by hypohalous acids, due to stabilization of reaction intermediates. In this study we hypothesized that considerable variation (and hence selective oxidation) would occur with singlet oxygen (1O 2), a key intermediate in photo-oxidation reactions. The kinetics of disulfide-mediated 1O 2 removal were monitored using the time-resolved 1270 nm phosphorescence of 1O 2. Stern-Volmer plots of these data showed a large variation (∼103) in the quenching rate constants k q (from 2 × 107 for α-lipoic acid to 3.6 × 104 M−1s−1 for cystamine). The time course of disulfide loss and product formation (determined by LC-MS) support a role for 1O 2 , with mono- and di-oxygenated products detected. Elevated levels of these latter species were generated in D 2 O- compared to H 2 O buffers, which is consistent with solvent effects on the 1O 2 lifetime. These data are interpreted in terms of the intermediacy of a zwitterion [–S+(OO−)–S–], which either isomerizes to a thiosulfonate [–S(O) 2 –S–] or reacts with another parent molecule to give two thiosulfinates [–S(O)–S-]. The variation in quenching rates and product formation are ascribed to zwitterion stabilization by neighboring, or remote, lone pairs of electrons. These data suggest that some disulfides, including some present within or attached to proteins (e.g., α-lipoic acid), may be selectively modified, and undergo subsequent cleavage, with adverse effects on protein structure and function. [Display omitted] • Kinetics of disulfide-mediated 1O 2 removal monitored using time-resolved phosphorescence. • Rate constants for 1O 2 removal show a marked variation with structure (103 -107 M−1 s−1). • 5-membered ring disulfides (lipoic acid, lipoamide) react more rapid than linear disulfides. • LC-MS analyses show formation of mono- (thiosulfinate) and di-oxygenated (thiosulfonate) products. • Protein disulfides may show similar variable reactivity and selective oxidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Literature on cerebroplacental hemodynamics in fetuses with transposition of the great arteries (TGA) is scarce and provides conflicting results regarding the presence of a brain‐sparing effect. The aims of this study were to examine Doppler parameters in the middle cerebral artery (MCA) and umbilical artery (UA) in a large cohort of fetuses with TGA, and to assess their possible utility in predicting the need for urgent balloon atrial septostomy (BAS) in the neonate. Methods: This was a retrospective observational study of fetuses diagnosed with TGA between 2008 and 2022 and an age‐matched cohort of normal fetuses, conducted in a single tertiary fetal cardiology center. Medical records and echocardiographic examinations were reviewed to collect demographic, sonographic and follow‐up data. Selected Doppler parameters were compared between fetuses with TGA and normal fetuses, as well as between TGA fetuses with and those without an associated ventricular septal defect (VSD), to assess the impact of this congenital heart defect on cerebroplacental circulation. Additionally, Doppler indices in patients with a restrictive foramen ovale (FO) were analyzed to identify potential predictors of the need for urgent BAS. Results: A total of 541 examinations of 159 fetuses with TGA performed between 19 and 40 weeks' gestation and 1300 examinations of 1215 age‐matched normal fetuses were included in the study. MCA pulsatility index (PI) and UA‐PI followed expected trends throughout pregnancy, with slightly higher values observed in TGA fetuses, albeit within the limits for the normal population. Cerebroplacental ratio (CPR) values were similar in normal and TGA fetuses. The presence of a small VSD did not have a clinically significant impact on Doppler parameters. Peak systolic velocity (PSV) in the MCA increased gradually after 35 weeks' gestation, especially in fetuses that did not develop restriction of the FO after birth. MCA‐PSV values below 1.16 multiples of the median measured at 38 weeks or later predicted the need for urgent BAS with 81.4% sensitivity and 52.4% specificity. Conclusions: MCA‐PI, UA‐PI and CPR values in fetuses with TGA usually fall within normal limits throughout pregnancy. The presence of a small VSD does not affect the Doppler parameters significantly. MCA‐PSV increases in TGA fetuses after 35 weeks, and its value measured at the last prenatal examination (ideally after 37 weeks) may serve as an additional predictive factor for the need for urgent BAS. © 2023 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quality improvement and patient safety (QIPS) curricula are critical in graduate medical education, yet barriers limit the educational experience and project outcomes. To explore the impact of QIPS curricular enhancements and integration of continuous improvement specialists (CIS) by examining the A3 document, the primary project product and surrogate for project quality. Since 2009, University of Michigan internal medicine and medicine-pediatric residents participate in a QIPS curriculum, which includes a 4-week group project. In 2016, residency leaders collaborated with CIS staff, non-clinical experts in QIPS with backgrounds in engineering and business, to improve the curriculum. Informed by a needs assessment, the intervention was implemented in 2017 and consisted of a set of enhancements including integration of CIS staff into groups as co-facilitators. In this retrospective cohort study, a blinded reviewer evaluated all available A3 documents before and after the intervention using a quantitative analysis tool. All residents participated in the curriculum during the pre-intervention (July 2009 to June 2016, n=351) and post-intervention (July 2017 to June 2020, n=148) periods. A total of 23 of 84 (27%) pre-intervention and 31 of 34 (91%) post-intervention A3 documents were available for review. Scores improved significantly for 17 of 23 (74%) A3 items and for 7 of 8 (88%) sections. Mean A3 total scores increased from 29.0 to 47.0 (95% CI 12.6-23.4; P<.001) out of a possible 69.0. Embedding CIS experts into residency QIPS curricula is associated with improved A3 document quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lanthanide‐doped nanoparticles (NPs) exhibit temperature‐dependent luminescence, enabling the design of luminescent nanothermometers for industrial and medical applications. This research demonstrates the temperature‐sensing properties of NaYF4:7.5%Er3+@NaYF4 and NaErF4@NaYF4 NPs, which have a hexagonal shape and average size of 17 nm. Their core@shell structure is confirmed using high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy, and they exhibit intense upconversion (UC) emission under 1532 nm excitation in H2O and D2O colloids. The recorded spectra show Er3+ emission bands with varying intensity ratios depending on the Er3+ concentration, chosen solvent, and temperature. The spectroscopic properties of the studied NPs allow for their excitation and observation of emission within biological windows, which makes them useful for bio‐related applications. The emission of prepared NPs is analyzed as a function of temperature from 298 up to 358/363 K in H2O and D2O. The ratios for thermally‐coupled levels  and non‐TCLs and their relative sensitivities are studied. For the high dopant concentration sample in water, the O─H vibrations and blue shift in the absorption spectrum lead to a record relative sensitivity of 2.50% K−1 (at 363 K) for the 2H11/2/4I11/2 ratio. The use of synthesized NPs for bioimaging under 1550 nm excitation is also demonstrated to observe their accumulation in the guts of Daphnia magna. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the dynamics of obedience and power in the context of interactions between humans and robots at work. We replicated and extended the previous studies by comparing the responses of participants to a humanoid robot, which acts as an authoritative figure, against those to a human in a similar role. Although the humanoid robot commanded a significant level of obedience (63%), it was notably lower than that of its human counterpart (75%). Moreover, the work under the supervision of the robot was performed more slowly and less effectively. The results provide a good insight into the practical implications of using humanoid robots in official roles, especially for repeated and tedious tasks or challenging work activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Up-converting nanoparticles can be a demand for requirements in many areas, including bioimaging and conversion of energy, but also in the battle against counterfeiting. The properties of lanthanide ions make falsification difficult or even impossible using appropriately designed systems. The proposition of such an approach is the NaErF4:Tm3+@NaYF4 core@shell up-converting nanoparticles combined with transparent varnishes. Given the spectroscopic properties of Er3+ ions present in the fluoride matrix, the obtained up-converting nanoparticles absorb light by 808 and 975 nm wavelengths. The intentionally co-doped Tm3+ ions enable tuning characteristic green Er3+ emission to red luminescence, particularly desirable in anti-counterfeiting applications. The article includes a thorough analysis of structural and morphological properties. Moreover, this work shows that exclusive luminescent properties of NaErF4:Tm3+@NaYF4 NPs can be given to the transparent varnish, providing an excellent anti-counterfeiting system, revealing red emission under two different excitation wavelengths. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Up-converting nanoparticles can be a demand for requirements in many areas, including bioimaging and conversion of energy, but also in the battle against counterfeiting. The properties of lanthanide ions make falsification difficult or even impossible using appropriately designed systems. The proposition of such an approach is the NaErF4:Tm3+@NaYF4 core@shell up-converting nanoparticles combined with transparent varnishes. Given the spectroscopic properties of Er3+ ions present in the fluoride matrix, the obtained up-converting nanoparticles absorb light by 808 and 975 nm wavelengths. The intentionally co-doped Tm3+ ions enable tuning characteristic green Er3+ emission to red luminescence, particularly desirable in anti-counterfeiting applications. The article includes a thorough analysis of structural and morphological properties. Moreover, this work shows that exclusive luminescent properties of NaErF4:Tm3+@NaYF4 NPs can be given to the transparent varnish, providing an excellent anti-counterfeiting system, revealing red emission under two different excitation wavelengths. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experimental identification of stiffening walls is often limited to studying single-wall models. However, these samples do not reflect many additional effects—torsion of the building and redistribution of internal forces. This paper presents the results of two full-scale buildings made of autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) masonry elements. The primary purpose of the work was to determine the changes in the stiffness of the shear walls and to attempt the empirical distribution of loads on the stiffening walls. The intermediate goals were: a description of the crack morphology and the mechanism of failure, the designation of the stiffening walls' behavior. It was shown that the first crack formed in the tensile corner of the door opening, and the subsequent cracks formed in the wall without a hole. Based on the changes in the value of the shear deformation angles, the phases of work of the stiffening walls were determined. The presented research results are only a part of an extensive study of stiffening walls in masonry buildings conducted at the Silesian University of Technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-destructive testing (NDT) methods are a diagnostic tool for evaluating the risk of failure or the need for repair and renovation. In analyzing constructions of high historical value, destructive diagnostic methods should be avoided. This study is a comprehensive NDT investigation of the masonry tower topped with a steel dome, a remnant of the overhead telecommunications network from the end of the 19th century. Visual inspection and research made it possible to assess the degree of damage to the structure. Stress–strain state analysis showed the sufficient load-bearing capacity of the steel dome. In addition, calculations have shown that the masonry tower is subjected to significant horizontal forces causing structure cracks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The size of the microbial biomass and the activity of soil enzymes are among the most sensitive indicators of agricultural land quality. The aim of this study was to determine the spatial and temporal variability of microbial biomass, the activity of dehydrogenase (DHA) enzyme and the concentration of micro- (Na, Mg and Ca) and macroelements (Cu, Zn, Mn and Fe) in the soil, collected from 37 measurement sites (depth 0–30 cm) in a 40-hectare field during two growing seasons (wheat and oilseed rape). The percentage of nitrogen (%N) in the wheat grain and rapeseeds was also determined. Mapping the spatial distribution of the microbial biomass, the level of DHA activity and the concentration of the selected elements was used to assess the soil productivity. All tested soil parameters exhibited temporal and spatial variability. The creation of raster maps showing the distribution of the tested parameters allowed the observation of a higher nitrogen content in wheat grains in the south-western part of the field, with high values of DHA activity, bacterial biomass and soil pH. In the case of oilseed rape, plants grown in the northern part of the field were characterized by a higher nitrogen content in the grain, where the soil was characterized by a higher content of fungal biomass. On the basis of the obtained research results, a positive, statistically significant correlation was also shown between the biomass of bacteria and the level of DHA in the soil under the cultivation of both wheat and rape. The cultivation of both crops had a significant impact on the size of the microbial biomass pool and on the DHA activity level but did not affect the concentration of the nutrients in the soil. High concentrations of the analyzed elements at the measuring points correlated with a greater %N content in the grain/seeds of the crops harvested at those locations in the field. The results conclude that the mapping of the physicochemical parameters, microbial biomass and activity on the field permits the development of an effective strategy for maintaining sustainable soil productivity through the appropriate management of agricultural practices and the better approximation of mineral fertilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indocyanine green videoangiography (ICG-VA) with FLOW 800 (Carl Zeiss AG) has been used as a visualization tool to guide arteriovenous malformation (AVM) surgery since 2011. We performed a systematic review and evaluated the quality of evidence available on this topic. In addition, we present a series of our own cases demonstrating the unique use of ICG-VA in the localization and removal of deeper seated AVMs. Using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines for systematic reviews, we identified studies related to ICG-VA with FLOW 800 in AVM surgeries using search terms. The studies were screened and reviewed, and the quality of evidence was analyzed using the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) criteria. We performed a retrospective review of our own cases of AVM removal with ICG-VA and FLOW 800. Our search revealed 27 relevant studies, 17 of which met our inclusion criteria. The quality of the body of evidence was determined to be "very low" using the GRADE criteria. We used ICG-VA with FLOW 800 analysis for 14 cases of microsurgical AVM removal. This technique provided unique insights into the localization of deep seated AVMs in 8 cases (57%). No residual AVM was found when assessed by the 6-month follow-up angiogram. We present cases highlighting the usefulness of this technique for the localization of certain AVMs. We believe the use of ICG-VA can guide the removal of deeper seated AVMs, because it can reveal surface feeders and draining veins that can be followed to a hidden nidus. Larger, registry-based studies are needed to confirm these findings and improve the overall quality of evidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastic pollution is a problem of global concern. This study is based on a laboratory experiment that was performed to investigate how soil-added microplastic particles (MP) affect soil microorganisms and mesofauna with a focus on enchytraeids (Annelida). In an experiment presented, polyethylene spherical MP of two sizes, 60 μm and 140 μm, (Cospheric LLC, USA) were applied (0.8 % w/w) to three different soils (mesocosms). The effect of MP was measured twice, 3 and 15 weeks after application as soil microbial activity (basal respiration rate), soil mesofauna feeding activity (bait-lamina test), and number and body length of enchytraeids (after wet funnel extraction). Both applied MP sizes caused a significant increase in soil respiration rate compared to controls (10 % on average). Mesofaunal feeding activity decreased in MP treated soils compared to controls (15 % on average), but the effect was significant only as an interaction between MP treatment and time. MP added to the soil did not affect the number of enchytraeids, nor their total body length or mean body length, but the body length distribution of enchytraeids differed between MP treatments and controls. These results may indicate that the effect of MP may differ between soil microorganisms and mesofauna. Changes in the body length distribution of enchytraeids, particularly a decrease in the smallest length class, may serve as a simple indicator of impending assemblage collapse. [Display omitted] • Microplastic particles in mesocosm study affect soil organisms differently in three soils. • MP increased the soil respiration rate but decreased the feeding activity of soil mesofauna. • MP caused a shift in the body length distribution of enchytraeids, with no effect on their mean number and total body length. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel Ln-MOF with microrods shape were successfully combined with ZnIn 2 S 4 (ZIS) microsphere and used for photocatalytic hydrogen generation under UV–Vis and visible light. The Ln-MOFs/ZIS system comprises lanthanide-carboxylate coordination networks (Tm and Gd as metal ions, and 1,3,5-benzenetricarboxylic acid (BTC) as the organic linker) deposited on ZnIn 2 S 4 microspheres. Effect of the amount of ((Tm,Gd)-BTC) (1, 5, 10 wt%) on the optical properties and photocatalytic hydrogen evolution performance was investigated. ZIS microsphere shows the marigold flower-like morphology and hexagonal polytopic crystal form. Our results proved that the combination of ZIS microsphere, Ln-MOF and Pt nanoparticles (NPs) caused significant enhancement in hydrogen generation. Amount of formed hydrogen was raised from 196.3 to 7782.1 μmol g−1 for pristine ZIS and ZIS decorated with 1% (Tm, Gd)-BTC/Pt under UV–Vis light, respectively. [Display omitted] • Novel composite of (Tm,Gd)-BTC with ZnIn 2 S 4 microsphere. • Highly efficient photocatalytic performance compared to ZnIn 2 S 4. • Amount of H 2 formed over ZIS/1%Ln-MOF/Pt was 11,866,57 μmol g−1 under UV–Vis. • 40 times greater photocatalytic H 2 evolution for ZIS/1%Ln-MOF/Pt than for ZIS/Pt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Rifaximin use in combination with lactulose is associated with a decreased risk of overt hepatic encephalopathy (HE). METHODS: We prospectively evaluated the impact of an interruptive electronic medical record alert to indicate rifaximin for patients with cirrhosis and HE on lactulose. RESULTS: The intervention was associated increased rifaximin utilization, particularly for nongastroenterology and hospitalist services odds ratio 1.20 95% confidence interval (1.09-1.31). For patients with HE, the intervention was associated with a lower readmission risk-adjusted subdistribution hazard ratio 0.63 95% confidence interval (0.48-0.82). DISCUSSION: An interruptive alert in the electronic ordering system was associated with a lower risk of readmissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A highly integrated fundamentally operated direct-conversion quadrature (IQ) TX/RX chipset with a tunable carrier of 215–240 GHz for high-speed wireless communication is presented. The TX/RX front-ends are fabricated in the 0.13- $\mu \text{m}$ SiGe HBT technology and combined with wire-bonded chip-on-board (COB) packaging for high-speed baseband (BB) signaling. For test purposes, the chipset features a dedicated dual-polarization architecture with a suitable on-chip antenna to allow controlled variation in I-to-Q channel leakage resulting from frequency-dependent upper sideband (USB)/lower sideband (LSB) asymmetry in the RF path of the jointly operated TX and RX and the corresponding analysis of its impact on system error vector magnitude (EVM) of the complete link. The analysis is aided by system-level BB-referred problem formulation with similarity to the classical IQ error in the local oscillator (LO) and BB paths. While operated in a loop-back configuration, the front-ends support the LO-dependent BB-referred channel bandwidth (BW) of 16–20 GHz at the board level with the typical free-space-related double sideband (DSB) Psat/OP1 of 7/3.5 dBm and single sideband (SSB) conversion gain (CG)/noise figure (NF) of 7.5/17.5 dB for the TX and RX, respectively. Under regular working conditions, data rates above 80 Gb/s are demonstrated for 16-quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) modulation in a 0.6-m line-of-sight wireless characterization setup, with the maximum of 100 Gb/s at 225 GHz. The achievable speeds are limited by frequency-dependent USB/LSB asymmetry in the RF path resulting in systematic error vector floor independently of the underlying SNR and IQ error. With elimination of the asymmetry-incurred I-to-Q leakage from the RF path, the potential of increasing the data rates to at least 120–140 Gb/s is shown, indicating the severeness of this RF impairment for wide modulation bandwidth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biliary adenofibroma is a rare benign liver tumor with potential for malignant transition. It has a bile duct origin characterized by a complex tubulocystic biliary epithelium with fibrous stroma. MRI features may suggest this uncommon entity, and histological findings can be diagnostic. We report a case of biliary adenofibroma with transformation to an intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents a comprehensive analysis of the terahertz (THz) rectification process with modern high-speed silicon–germanium (SiGe) heterojunction bipolar transistor (HBT) devices to enable low-power and close-to-optimum detector sensitivity in a near-THz fractional bandwidth. The influence of all major device internal parasitics on the detector responsivity and noise equivalent power (NEP) is analyzed in detail as a function of the device bias point and the operating frequency. By analogy to the cold MOSFET operation, the fundamentals of the detector operating in weak and deep saturation are studied and compared with the forward-active region, indicating its potentially superior NEP performance with a suitable readout path. The antenna’s broadband radio frequency (RF) power coupling aspects are further elaborated and related to the device bias conditions to maximize the internal base–emitter driving voltage. A set of single- and dual-polarized antenna-coupled detectors with close-to-optimum detector operation in a near-THz fractional bandwidth and a state-of-the-art optical performance was implemented in a 0.13- $\mu \text{m}$ SiGe HBT technology with $f_{t}/f_{\text {max}}$ of 350/550 GHz and extensively characterized across 200–1000 GHz to support the underlying analysis. For the forward-active operation, the following maximum optical current responsivity and minimum optical NEP values have been demonstrated: 5 A/W, 1.9 pW/ $\sqrt {\text {Hz}}$ at 300 GHz and 0.65 A/W, 19 pW/ $\sqrt {\text {Hz}}$ at 900 GHz. The corresponding NEP values for deep saturation (with unbiased collector) are 5.1 pW/ $\sqrt {\text {Hz}}$ and 45 pW/ $\sqrt {\text {Hz}}$ but they are largely limited by the noise floor of the consecutive external amplifier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grzyb, K, Candow, DG, Schoenfeld, BJ, Bernat, P, Butchart, S, and Neary, JP. Effect of equal volume, high-repetition resistance training to volitional fatigue, with different workout frequencies, on muscle mass and neuromuscular performance in postmenopausal women. J Strength Cond Res 36(1): 31–36, 2022—This study examined the effects of equal volume, high-repetition resistance training (HRRT) performed to volitional fatigue, with different workout frequencies, on muscle mass and neuromuscular performance (strength, endurance) in untrained postmenopausal women. Subjects were randomized to perform HRRT 2 d·wk−1 (HRRT-2; 3 sets of 20–30 repetitions/set for elbow and knee flexion and extension) or 3 d·wk−1 (HRRT-3; 2 sets of 20–30 repetitions/set per exercise) for 8 weeks. Baseline and post-training assessments were made for muscle thickness, strength (1 repetition maximum [1RM]) and endurance (number of repetitions performed at 50% baseline 1RM) for elbow and knee flexor and extensor muscle groups. Significance was set at p < 0.05. There was a significant increase over time for all measures of muscle thickness, strength, and endurance (p < 0.005), with no differences between groups. Untrained postmenopausal women can expect to achieve similar improvements in muscle size, strength, and endurance when training 2 or 3 days per week, provided total weekly training volume is equal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoscale layers of nickel and aluminum can mix rapidly to produce runaway reactions. While self-propagating high temperature synthesis reactions have been observed for decades, the solid-state ignition of these reactions has been challenging to study. Particularly elusive is characterization of the low-temperature chemical mixing that occurs just prior to the ignition of the runaway reaction. Characterization can be challenging due to inhomogeneous microstructures, uncontrollable heat losses, and the nonuniform distribution of heat throughout the material prior to ignition. To reduce the impact of these variables, we heat multilayered Ni/Al foils in a highly uniform manner and report ignition temperatures as low as 245 °C for heating rates ranging from 2000 °C/s to 50 000 °C/s. Igniting in this way reveals that there are four stages before the reaction is complete: heating to an ignition temperature, low temperature solid-state mixing, a separate high temperature solid-state mixing, and liquid-state mixing. Multiple bilayer spacings, heating rates, and heating times are compared to show that the ignition temperature is a function of the bilayer spacing. A symmetric numerical diffusion model is used to show that there is very little chemical mixing in the first 10 ms of heating but significant mixing after 50 ms. These predictions suggest that ignition temperatures should increase for the slowest heating rates but this trend could not be identified clearly. The modeling was also used to examine the kinetic parameters governing the early stages of solid-state diffusion and suggest that grain boundary diffusion is dominant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoscale layers of nickel and aluminum can mix rapidly to produce runaway reactions. While self-propagating high temperature synthesis reactions have been observed for decades, the solid-state ignition of these reactions has been challenging to study. Particularly elusive is characterization of the low-temperature chemical mixing that occurs just prior to the ignition of the runaway reaction. Characterization can be challenging due to inhomogeneous microstructures, uncontrollable heat losses, and the nonuniform distribution of heat throughout the material prior to ignition. To reduce the impact of these variables, we heat multilayered Ni/Al foils in a highly uniform manner and report ignition temperatures as low as 245 °C for heating rates ranging from 2000 °C/s to 50 000 °C/s. Igniting in this way reveals that there are four stages before the reaction is complete: heating to an ignition temperature, low temperature solid-state mixing, a separate high temperature solid-state mixing, and liquid-state mixing. Multiple bilayer spacings, heating rates, and heating times are compared to show that the ignition temperature is a function of the bilayer spacing. A symmetric numerical diffusion model is used to show that there is very little chemical mixing in the first 10 ms of heating but significant mixing after 50 ms. These predictions suggest that ignition temperatures should increase for the slowest heating rates but this trend could not be identified clearly. The modeling was also used to examine the kinetic parameters governing the early stages of solid-state diffusion and suggest that grain boundary diffusion is dominant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Triatoma sordida is one of the main Chagas disease vectors in Brazil. In addition to Brazil, this species has already been reported in Bolivia, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay. It is hypothesized that the insects currently identified as T. sordida are a species subcomplex formed by three cytotypes (T. sordida sensu stricto [s.s.], T. sordida La Paz, and T. sordida Argentina). With the recent description of T. rosai from the Argentinean specimens, it became necessary to assess the taxonomic status of T. sordida from La Paz, Bolivia, since it was suggested that it may represent a new species, which has taxonomic, evolutionary, and epidemiological implications. Based on the above, we carried out molecular and experimental crossover studies to assess the specific status of T. sordida La Paz. Methods: To evaluate the pre- and postzygotic barriers between T. sordida La Paz and T. sordida s.s., experimental crosses and intercrosses between F1 hybrids and between F2 hybrids were conducted. In addition, cytogenetic analyses of the F1 and F2 hybrids were applied with an emphasis on the degree of pairing between the homeologous chromosomes, and morphological analyses of the male gonads were performed to evaluate the presence of gonadal dysgenesis. Lastly, the genetic distance between T. sordida La Paz and T. sordida s.s. was calculated for the CYTB, ND1, and ITS1 genes. Results: Regardless of the gene used, T. sordida La Paz showed low genetic distance compared to T. sordida s.s. (below 2%). Experimental crosses resulted in offspring for both directions, demonstrating that there are no prezygotic barriers installed between these allopatric populations. Furthermore, postzygotic barriers were not observed either (since the F1 × F1 and F2 × F2 intercrosses resulted in viable offspring). Morphological and cytogenetic analyses of the male gonads of the F1 and F2 offspring demonstrated that the testes were not atrophied and did not show chromosome pairing errors. Conclusion: Based on the low genetic distance (which configures intraspecific variation), associated with the absence of prezygotic and postzygotic reproductive barriers, we confirm that T. sordida La Paz represents only a chromosomal polymorphism of T. sordida s.s. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Steroid synthesis and production in ruminant uterus is not obvious, especially in seasonally reproduced. We compared steroid production by investigating enzymes involved in red deer uterine steroid metabolism in reproductive seasons. Blood and uteri (endometrium and myometrium) were collected post mortem from hinds on 4th day (N = 8), 13th day of the cycle (N = 8), anestrus (N = 8) and pregnancy (N = 8). The expression of cytochrome P450 aromatase (P450), 3 -beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD), 17 -beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β-HSD), aldo–keto reductase family 1 C1 (AKR1C1), estrogen receptor alpha (ERα), and progesterone receptors (PRs), were analyzed using real-time-PCR and Western Blotting. Plasma samples were assayed for 17-beta-estradiol (E2), progesterone (P4), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and testosterone (T4) concentrations by EIA. Hinds at the beginning of the estrous cycle, mainly in endometrium, were characterized by a high mRNA expression of 3β-HSD, AKR1C1, PRs and ERα, contrary to the expression in myometrium during pregnancy (P < 0.05). For P4, E2, and FSH, concentration was the highest during the 13th day of the estrous cycle (P < 0.05). Uterine steroid production and output in hinds as a representative seasonally reproduced ruminant occurred mainly during the estrous cycle and sustained in anestrus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cell types in ventral midbrain are involved in diseases with variable genetic susceptibility, such as Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia. Many genetic variants affect regulatory regions and alter gene expression in a cell-type-specific manner depending on the chromatin structure and accessibility. Results: We report 20,658 single-nuclei chromatin accessibility profiles of ventral midbrain from two genetically and phenotypically distinct mouse strains. We distinguish ten cell types based on chromatin profiles and analysis of accessible regions controlling cell identity genes highlights cell-type-specific key transcription factors. Regulatory variation segregating the mouse strains manifests more on transcriptome than chromatin level. However, cell-type-level data reveals changes not captured at tissue level. To discover the scope and cell-type specificity of cis-acting variation in midbrain gene expression, we identify putative regulatory variants and show them to be enriched at differentially expressed loci. Finally, we find TCF7L2 to mediate trans-acting variation selectively in midbrain neurons. Conclusions: Our data set provides an extensive resource to study gene regulation in mesencephalon and provides insights into control of cell identity in the midbrain and identifies cell-type-specific regulatory variation possibly underlying phenotypic and behavioural differences between mouse strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Methionine and S-Methyl-Cysteine oxidation leads to efficient decarboxylation. • Oxidation of S-Methyl-Cysteine yields alpha-aminoalkyl radicals. • Alpha-aminoalkyl radicals undergo beta-scission and hydrolysis. • LC-MS analysis reveals the formation of multiple isomeric photoproducts through free-radical reactions. The present study explores the photosensitized oxidation process of Acetyl-Methyl-Cysteine (Ac-MeCys) within a neutral pH aqueous solution. A comprehensive mechanism elucidating this phenomenon is put forth, leveraging outcomes from nanosecond laser flash photolysis (nsLFP) investigations and analysis of resultant stable compounds. The nsLFP findings furnish insights into the transient entities arising from the interaction between the photosensitizer, 3-carboxybenzophenone (3CB), and Ac-MeCys. These insights encompass the quantum yields of these transients. Additionally, the evaluation of enduring products entails the utilization of liquid chromatography and high-resolution mass spectrometry techniques. The principal reaction observed involves the formation of α-amidoalkyl radicals (αN) through decarboxylation, which supersedes the more prevalent α-thioalkyl radicals (αS) reported previously for analogous compounds such as Ac-Methionine. The αN radicals experience two distinct pathways for decay: they either combine with ketyl radicals to yield the αN-3CBH radical coupling product, or undergo beta-scission and hydrolysis, relinquishing CH 3 SH and giving rise to a corresponding alcohol. This investigation highlights how the distance relationship between the thioether group and the peptide backbone influences the oxidation trajectory of Ac-MeCys in comparison to Ac-Met. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gilbert's hypothesis regarding the possible effect of the feet-in-the-door procedure on obedience to an authority figure in Milgram's paradigm was tested in the course of two studies. Neither the first experiment, conducted in a laboratory (N = 80), which was a true copy of the model proposed by Milgram, nor the second study, conducted online (N = 485), validated Gilbert's hypothesis. Actually, the results demonstrated the opposite–fewer of those subjects who were asked to shock the "learner" with high voltage straight away refused to follow the order than those who reached the same voltage level gradually. In Study 2, we also tested the hypothesis regarding the role of a postponement as a factor in decreasing one's obedience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among social influence techniques, a special place is occupied by dialogue involvement – it is not only a means of improving chances for compliance, but it can also perform a synergistic function, reinforcing the workings of other influence techniques. In two field experiments, we explored what effectiveness the technique of dialogue involvement can have in acquiring volunteers (Study 1) and how it functions in combination with the labeling technique (Study 2). The achieved results demonstrate that dialogue involvement not only increases the chance of obtaining agreement to be a volunteer in a day room facility for children or in a pediatric ward of a local hospital, but it also increases the average number of hours that volunteers declare they will work. Dialogue involvement also demonstrates effectiveness in combination with the technique of labeling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Control of morphology and spectroscopic properties during the synthesis of up-converting nanoparticles (NPs) is a great challenge. One of the most popular ways of NPs synthesis is the hydrothermal method, which is relatively simple, effective, environmentally friendly and permits easy control of synthesis parameters. For these reasons, the hydrothermal method was applied for the synthesis of CaF2:Yb3+,Er3+ NPs and optimized. The effects of synthesis conditions on the properties of the product were carefully analysed. The tests were performed to check the impact of two surfactants: sodium citrate (NaCit) and ammonium citrate (NH4Cit), different excess of ammonium fluoride used as a precipitation agent and different volumes of solution with reactants. The type of co-reagent was found to influence the size of the obtained NPs and charge compensation, required after Yb3+ and Er3+ doping into Ca2+ sites. Depending on the synthesis conditions, the formation of Yb3+ clusters and alterations in the Yb3+ site symmetry were detected. The excitation and emission spectra revealed the importance of the presence of the Na+ ions on the energy transfer mechanism and the resulting emission intensity. The presented results show that applying stirring during the synthesis or changing the type of anti-agglomeration agent has a great influence on the luminescence intensity and colour as well as maximum of excitation when Yb3+ ions are used. Analysis of the excitation spectra and Yb3+ emission decays showed the complex structure of CaF2:Yb3+,Er3+ NPs, with Yb3+ ions in two different environments within the volume of NPs with different site symmetries. The samples prepared in the presence of Na+ ions were characterized by long Yb3+ emission rise times, revealing energy migration between Yb3+ at different symmetries and, at the same time, improved the overall luminescence intensity of NPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND This paper reflects on the status of the field experiment in contemporary psychology (especially its social branch). The subject of analysis is how frequently this method is used, especially in the context of the growing popularity of on-line research. participants and procedure The empirical part of the article presents an experiment revealing the uniqueness of the field experiment as a method allowing for the identification of subtle variables that can have a real impact on the results obtained. In the whole study 128 people were examined (half of the group were women). The obtained results show that some phenomena cannot be examined in any other way than by means of the field experiment. results The process of moving away from the study of real behaviours in the real environment, observed over the last twenty years, has not stopped since the criticism of this phenomenon expressed about 20 years ago. On the contrary, it has intensified. The phenomenon described in the article is definitely harmful to the scientific discipline so strongly connected with the social context of research, namely social psychology. conclusions Time will show whether the increasingly loud voices criticising this trend will translate into an actual change of methods used by social psychologists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this report, we describe studies on symplasmic communication and cellular rearrangement during direct somatic embryogenesis (SE) in the tree fern Cyathea delgadii. We analyzed changes in the symplasmic transport of low-molecular-weight fluorochromes, such as 8-hydroxypyrene-1,3,6-trisulfonic acid, trisodium salt (HPTS) and fluorescein (delivered to cells as fluorescein diacetate, FDA), within stipe explants and somatic embryos originating from single epidermal cells and developing during 16-d long culture. Induction of SE is preceded by a restriction in fluorochrome distribution between certain explant cells. Microscopic analysis showed a series of cellular changes like a decrease in vacuole size, increase in vacuole numbers, and increased density of cytoplasm and deposition of electron-dense material in cell walls that may be related with embryogenic transition. In somatic embryos, the limited symplasmic communication between cells was observed first in linear tri-cellular embryos. Further development of the fern embryo was associated with the formation of symplasmic domains corresponding to the four segments of the plant body. Using symplasmic tracers, we provided evidence that the changes in plasmodesmata permeability are corelated with somatic-to-embryogenic transition and somatic embryo development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Hepatocyte Growth Factor is a strong mitogenic factor and seems to play important role in tumor angiogenesis. The purpose of this study was to analyse the plasma concentration of this factor in patients treated surgically because of intracranial tumors. The study included 47 patients, both sexes treated surgically for intracranial tumors and 30 adult volunteers of both sexes, without cancer diagnosis. In study group 4 measurements of plasma HGF were taken: measurement 1: within 24 hours to 1 hour before the operation (preoperative), measurement 2: on the first day after the operation, i.e. after 24 hours, measurement 3: between the third and fifth day following the treatment, i.e. within 72–120 hours, and measurement 4: on the seventh day after the operation, i.e. after 840 hours. In control group only one measurement was taken. The distribution of the analyzed parameters was different from the normal distribution, therefore nonparametric statistics were used. The result values are presented in the form of a median (Me). The analysis revealed that HGR plasma levels in the patients with intracranial tumors in all 4 measurements (Me1 = 543.16 pg/ml, Me2 = 762.59 pg/ml, Me3 = 819.82 pg/ml, Me4 = 804.82 pg/ml) in the perioperative period were elevated in comparison to healthy subjects (Me = 361.04 pg/ml). The association has been shown to exist between postoperative HGF plasma levels and the clinical condition of patients with intracranial tumors (p = 0.0342). Postoperative HGF levels correlated negatively with the patients' postoperative condition. It was also found that in patients with supratentorial tumors HGF plasma levels were higher (Me = 557.74 pg/ml) in comparison to patients with posterior fossa tumors (Me = 325.00 pg/ml). These results suggest increased angiogenic and mitogenic activity in patients with intracranial tumors and its even greater intensity in the postoperative period. Greater angiogenic activity appears to occur in patients with supratentorial tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most language use is displaced, referring to past, future, or hypothetical events, posing the challenge of how children learn what words refer to when the referent is not physically available. One possibility is that iconic cues that imagistically evoke properties of absent referents support learning when referents are displaced. In an audio‐visual corpus of caregiver–child dyads, English‐speaking caregivers interacted with their children (N = 71, 24–58 months) in contexts in which the objects talked about were either familiar or unfamiliar to the child, and either physically present or displaced. The analysis of the range of vocal, manual, and looking behaviors caregivers produced suggests that caregivers used iconic cues especially in displaced contexts and for unfamiliar objects, using other cues when objects were present. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The toxicity of lanthanide-doped nanocrystals, bare or PEG-coated, was evaluated. • Overall, SrF2:Yb3+,Er3+@PEG NPs were slightly more toxic. • Hydra viridissima was the species showing the highest sensitivity to the NPs. • Both NPs were found to accumulate in daphnia's digestive tract. Various types of nanoparticles (NPs) have been widely investigated recently and applied in areas such as industry, the energy sector, and medicine, presenting the risk of their release into the environment. The ecotoxicity of NPs depends on several factors such as their shape and surface chemistry. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is one of the most often used compounds for functionalisation of NP surfaces, and its presence on the surfaces of NPs may affect their ecotoxicity. Therefore, the present study aimed to assess the influence of PEG modification on the toxicity of NPs. As biological model, we chose freshwater microalgae, a macrophyte and invertebrates, which to a considerable extent enable the assessment of the harmfulness of NPs to freshwater biota. SrF 2 :Yb3+,Er3+ NPs were used to represent the broad group of up-converting NPs, which have been intensively investigated for medical applications. We quantified the effects of the NPs on five freshwater species representing three trophic levels: the green microalgae Raphidocelis subcapitata and Chlorella vulgaris , the macrophyte Lemna minor , the cladoceran Daphnia magna and the cnidarian Hydra viridissima. Overall, H. viridissima was the most sensitive species to NPs, which affected its survival and feeding rate. In this case, PEG-modified NPs were slightly more toxic than bare ones (non-significant results). No effects were observed on the other species exposed to the two NPs at the tested concentrations. The tested NPs were successfully imaged in the body of D. magna using confocal microscopy; both NPs were detected in the D. magna gut. The results obtained reveal that SrF 2 :Yb3+,Er3+ NPs can be toxic to some aquatic species; however, the structures have low toxicity effects for most of the tested species. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Predation is one of the most important factors affecting biology, ecology and behaviour of the prey. We have studied predation of the common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) by the great grey shrike (Lanius excubitor) in farmland habitats in western Poland. Shrike caches were used as a source of information about preyed lizards. Shrikes hunt significantly more adult males than females, juveniles and sub-adults; the pattern was similar over all three study years. Male lizard had longer activity time than female; therefore, they seem to be under predation pressure for a longer time during breeding season. Capture and count transect data of common lizard populations living within and outside shrike territories showed significant seasonal differences: within shrike territories, there was lower proportion of males than females; moreover, in some territories, the number of males in the lizard population was negatively correlated with the number of males impaled by shrikes. Our findings suggest that in this particular predator-prey system, shrikes may be a strong selective force for lizards' population dynamics. Male-biased predation could be caused by differences in the behaviour of adult male and female lizards, namely longer activity of males and differences in space and refuge use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to their photon up-converting capability, lanthanide ions are ideal candidates dopants for semiconductors for developing visible light-driven photocatalytic activity. Of particular relevance, the low luminescence efficiency of Ln-based nanoparticles is one of the main factors that limits their further applications. Carbon, which is present on the surface of all TiO 2 photocatalysts, can be responsible for luminescence quenching processes and, thus, decreasing the photocatalytic activity of TiO 2. This article presents a systematic experimental and theoretical study of the effects of carbon on the photocatalytic performance of Ho3+-modified TiO 2. Ho3+-TiO 2 photocatalysts modified with various carbon contents (from 0.5 to 20 mol.%) were successfully prepared using a simple hydrothermal method. As-obtained samples were characterized by UV–Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS/UV–Vis), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron emission spectroscopy (XPS), N 2 adsorption measurements, photoluminescent spectroscopy (PL), field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and scanning transmission microscopy (STEM). The photodegradation efficiency of phenol was estimated for visible light (λ > 420 nm and λ > 455 nm). The XPS and XRD analyses and theoretical calculations revealed that the substitutional doping of holmium and carbon in the TiO 2 anatase structure resulted in the appearance of a new sub-band-gap. Changes in the material texture, BET surface area and pore volume can be easily controlled via carbon content in samples. Doping of the Ho3+-TiO 2 photocatalysts with carbon resulted in quenching of the emission of Ho3+ and, thus, the photodegradation of phenol, was observed in samples containing smaller amounts of carbon. Sixty minutes of irradiation resulted in 89% of phenol degradation under visible light (λ > 420 nm). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Milgram experiments are among the most well-known and important in the history of psychology. Since first published, there have been countless discussions held on the subject of what factors induce people to exhibit extreme obedience towards authority. One such potential factor, not yet explored empirically, is the receipt in advance of financial gratification by a study participant. In our experiment we compare obedience among participants in classic Milgram paradigm conditions with obedience in a situation where the participant does not receive financial gratification in advance. The results did not show that obedience differed in the two comparable situations. In conditions where the participants were not given money up front, however, it was necessary to employ more verbal prompts in order to induce obedience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We hypothesised that the question‐behaviour effect, referred to as the influence of questioning about a given behaviour on its subsequent performance, is a relevant issue when exploring the external validity of intergroup attitudes. In a pair of studies, we have corroborated that merely expressing attitudes towards the Jewish minority affects people's relevant behaviour towards this group. In an Internet study, participants who first completed verbal attitude measures were more likely to donate to a Jewish organisation compared to those who completed the measures after making the decision to donate. Moreover, responses to attitude measures of various types and donating to the Jewish organisation were correlated when attitudes had been expressed in the first step. When attitudes were measured after the decision to donate, only the responses to the traditional anti‐Semitic scale were correlated with this behaviour. In the field study, in which the time interval between attitude and behaviour measures was introduced, no question‐behaviour effect was observed. We explain the results with reference to cognitive dissonance and attitude accessibility mechanisms and discuss them in a broader context of attitude‐behaviour research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Nonlinear optical properties of colloidal CdSe quantum dots conjugated with proteins were investigated in a wide spectral range with the two-photon excited emission technique using a tunable femtosecond laser system in the range from 700 to 1000 nm. The most significant value of the two-photon absorption cross section σ 2 for 2.9 nm size hydrophilic CdSe quantum dot was equal to 4 505 GM, while the two-photon excitation action cross section σ 2 ·QY was found to be 0.101 GM at 900 nm. The nonlinear absorption properties are present as appropriate cross sections normalized per molecular weight which allows comparison of the nonlinear properties of the studied quantum dots with various nanosystems or organic dyes. The properties of these proteins covering hydrophilic colloidal quantum dots can be potentially useful for nonlinear bioimaging. Graphical abstract fx1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]